EP 24 - Transforming Your Summer with a Sonic Boom!

PodcastMay 28, 2026

Flip N Out Pinball Podcast

35 min

Summary

Sonic the Hedgehog confirmed for June arrival; discussion of game releases, JJP designer roster, and original themes vs. licensed IP.

Ken Crone and Greg Bone discuss the busy summer pinball release schedule, including recently released Transformers (Stern) gaining positive reception post-launch, the imminent arrival of Sonic the Hedgehog (Jersey Jack Pinball) expected within 1-3 weeks with confirmed Arcade edition at ~$9,999, and the upcoming Tales of the Arabian Nights remake. They analyze the appeal of classic remakes vs. original themes, Jersey Jack's design talent (Steve Ritchie, Eric Meunier, Mark Seiden), code quality importance, and the challenges of creating successful original IP in modern pinball.

Highlights

Sonic the Hedgehog will release within 1-3 weeks, likely in June 2025
Jersey Jack Pinball confirmed Sonic the Sonic edition will exist at approximately $9,999
Jersey Jack Pinball is building Sonic to order (unlimited) similar to Harry Potter model
Transformers (Stern) code and assets are receiving strong positive community feedback
Bill Grupp led programming on Sonic the Hedgehog, having previously led King Kong code
Elton John (Jersey Jack) was a slow-burn success that gained traction through hands-on play
Summer is historically a slower sales period for pinball releases due to people being on vacation
Tales of the Arabian Nights remake is expected to release within 1-4 weeks
Classic unlicensed themes like Medieval Madness and Attack from Mars have become iconic IP status in modern pinball
American Pinball brand was already damaged by reputation issues when Galactic Tank Force released

From the creator

Episode 24 of the Flip N Out Pinball Podcast is packed with industry chatter, rumors, reactions, and real-world pinball discussion from Greg Bone and Ken Cromwell. This week, the guys break down the public reaction to Stern Pinball's new Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye release, including early impressions, player feedback, theme integration, gameplay discussion, and whether the game is connecting with the broader pinball audience. They also dive into growing rumors surrounding upcoming titles, including Jersey Jack Pinball's highly anticipated Sonic the Hedgehog and Fifth Element. Along the way, Greg and Ken discuss the challenges of modern pinball development, code maturity, limited editions strategy, market timing, and how theme selection can impact buyer excitement. Whether you're deep into the hobby or just keeping up with the latest pinball conversations, Episode 24 delivers another fun mix of insight, speculation, humor, and honest discussion from inside the industry. Please consider purchasing your next pinball or arcade machine from Flip N Out Pinball Flip N Out Pinball USED INVENTORY on facebook HERE Contact Ken and Greg for sales and service at: